Aiwa F660 (1983)

A three-head, dual capstan cassette deck from the mid-1980s, noted for its durable performance and need for periodic belt replacement.

Overview

The Aiwa F660 is a stereo cassette tape deck manufactured by Aiwa in 1983. It features a three-head configuration and dual capstan transport system, allowing for precise recording and playback. The separate playback and record heads enable direct comparison between source and recorded signals. Units have been found in estate sales and remain in use decades after production, often requiring belt replacement to maintain functionality.

Specifications

Type	3-head, single compact cassette deck
Dimensions	420 x 110 x 280mm
Weight	5.5kg
Power Requirements	120v / 50-60Hz
Total Harmonic Distortion	1.5%
Input	50mV (line), 0.3mV (mic)
Semiconductors	17 x IC, 78 x transistors, 29 x diodes, 46 x LED
Dolby	Dolby B, C
Back panel switches	headphone level (low/high), MPX filter

Design

The Aiwa F660 uses a three-head design with dual capstan drive system. The separation of playback and record head sections allows users to directly compare recorded output with the original source signal.

Context

The Aiwa F660 was grouped with the F-770 and F-990 as high-performance cassette decks in the mid-1980s, noted in enthusiast circles as strong competitors to other premium brands of the era.

Market

Listings show reconditioned units selling for around $250, with non-working units priced near $220. The deck is known to be sensitive to belt quality, and replacement of drive belts is a common maintenance requirement. Forum discussions also highlight the need to service electrolytic capacitors in the power supply over time.